Can anybody recommend a subscription free indoor CCTV camera?

Posted 12th May 2022
Hello,

I'm looking for an indoor security camera that does not require a subscription service, but can also record 24/7 preferably to local storage that can be accessed remotely.

It's important that I'm able to retrieve the data, and use the camera while not being present in the home.

Any ideas?

Thank you in advance!
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  1. Avatar
    MonkeyMan9012/05/2022 22:28

    What you want doesn't exist. You can't access local storage remotely. If …What you want doesn't exist. You can't access local storage remotely. If you don't want to pay a subscription then you can't collect your data remotely so something has got to give i'm afraid. The whole point of a subscription is for the ability to access your data whenever you want. You can't expect them to run a server for you for free.


    Strange. Almost every "security" cam with integral SD card feature will let the user(s) access the recordings from outside the local network, assuming the network is connected to the net.
    Here's a random £16 fulfilled-Amazon example that permits live feed and recordings access from anywhere there is a net connection, and is Alexa compatible etc. Even allows the admin to authorise access to designated additional users.
    amazon.co.uk/dp/…TG/
  2. Avatar
    What you want doesn't exist. You can't access local storage remotely. If you don't want to pay a subscription then you can't collect your data remotely so something has got to give i'm afraid. The whole point of a subscription is for the ability to access your data whenever you want. You can't expect them to run a server for you for free.
  3. Avatar
    Kenji12/05/2022 23:04

    This one seems interesting, just worried about there being not too many …This one seems interesting, just worried about there being not too many reviews etc.. Any other reccomendations?


    That wasn't a solution suggestion; it was an example of remote access to storage.

    Kenji12/05/2022 23:04

    This one seems interesting, just worried about there being not too many …This one seems interesting, just worried about there being not too many reviews etc.. Any other reccomendations?


    Solution suggestion: consider highly-rated credible & branded item with significant support & user base, 24/7 recording option, 256GB microSD capacity (20+ days "lab", mmm, yeah), remote access, pan/tilt(/zoom?), 2-way audio, Alexa & Google Home, etc, etc, currently decent price of £26 Prime for TP-Link Tapo C210
    amazon.co.uk/dp/…X1/ (edited)
  4. Avatar
    MonkeyMan9012/05/2022 22:28

    What you want doesn't exist. You can't access local storage remotely. If …What you want doesn't exist. You can't access local storage remotely. If you don't want to pay a subscription then you can't collect your data remotely so something has got to give i'm afraid. The whole point of a subscription is for the ability to access your data whenever you want. You can't expect them to run a server for you for free.


    Everything you said is wrong
  5. Avatar
    What about blink camera can record to a usb connect to the WiFi device?
  6. Avatar
    Author
    immy_ashraf12/05/2022 22:32

    What about blink camera can record to a usb connect to the WiFi device?


    I'm not sure they allow you to do so without the sync module and you will also have to take out the USB and put it into a PC I think..
  7. Avatar
    Assuming OP wants a standalone camera and not a DVR-based system, the 24/7 requirement may be the issue as it will require a chunk of local storage, typically via integral (micro)SD card. If DVR is definitely not wanted, it will probably be essential for a cam to have a minimum spec of x265 not x264 compression, plus minimum 128GB card capacity - these two expectations will dramatically limit options.
  8. Avatar
    Author
    AndyRoyd12/05/2022 22:45

    Strange. Almost every "security" cam with integral SD card feature will …Strange. Almost every "security" cam with integral SD card feature will let the user(s) access the recordings from outside the local network, assuming the network is connected to the net. Here's a random £16 fulfilled-Amazon example that permits live feed and recordings access from anywhere there is a net connection, and is Alexa compatible etc. Even allows the admin to authorise access to designated additional users.https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09Q8BKKTG/


    This one seems interesting, just worried about there being not too many reviews etc.. Any other reccomendations?
  9. Avatar
    I got warfencam from Google play for a one off fee. Can record on demand or continuously. Can save to Google drive or Dropbox ( I think... I used Google) . Set up a new Google account for more storage if needed.

    Use any old phone with a camera working.

    I did get blink originally but blink motion detector didn't work through my glass door and I couldn't put it outside as live on busy street. Warden can detects via software changes. Blink via infrared.

    Not sure if blink can do 24 7 suh free just detection. (edited)
  10. Avatar
    In my view, the best way to provide properly secure remote access to your cameras is to run your own encrypted VPN server on your own LAN and install a VPN client on your phone, laptop, or whatever.

    This could be achieved using a spare router flashed with Openwrt (or a low power computer like a raspberry pi) running Wireguard VPN server.

    You would also need to register with any free Dynamic DNS service unless you have a static IP address.

    Buy CCTV cameras that support ONVIF, which is a standard for accessing cameras and NVRs, although they may only provide onvif support for a subset of their features, but at a minimum will allow you to access a RTSP stream and record it locally, using any onvif compliant software/app. So you'll still be able to use the camera even if the manufacturer's p2p cloud server folds or goes temporarily down, or if you have to block the camera from accessing the internet due to vulnerabilities.

    I have all my IP cameras blocked by my router from making outbound connections to the internet because their P2P and cloud services contain unfixed security flaws (some multiple flaws). All the P2P apps for my cameras will connect direct to the camera when it is available on my LAN, or virtual VPN LAN, so I can still use their apps for features they've not implemented ONVIF support for. (edited)
  11. Avatar
    Eufy do subscription free cameras with local storage. You have a home base with SD storage in it, you can connect multiple devices to the hub. I have a video doorbell, two outdoor cameras and one indoor on the same hub. Video quality is great, audio great, motion sensor is excellent, you can tweak sensitivity in the app. You can access the camera feed at any time, it records and saves motion triggers for you to view later in the app. You can set a very loud alarm to sound from the camera remotely, or use it as an intercom by talking into your phone on the app. The speaker on the cameras and doorbell are very good, very clear audio, decent volume. Also the infrared night vision is very good.

    It does not record 24/7, though. They are battery operated, and that would eat the battery in no time. I get about 180 days out of the battery with a few motion triggers a day. (edited)
  12. Avatar
    How important is true 24/7 recording ? I use a cheap Tapo outdoor camera in the garden. This records to Integral SD card and is motion triggered and can be accessed remotely.

    Appreciate its not quite what you are asking for but might be a cheap alternative worth considering
  13. Avatar
    Kenji12/05/2022 22:52

    I'm not sure they allow you to do so without the sync module and you will …I'm not sure they allow you to do so without the sync module and you will also have to take out the USB and put it into a PC I think..


    You need the sync module 2 but you can view and download any videos stored locally on the usb through the blink app at any time, anywhere. Naturally you can use the usb in a pc to do the same. Ideally they would need to be powered 24/7 as stated as the batteries would be dead in a day or 2 of constant recording. The xt2 we have can be mounted inside or outside also.
  14. Avatar
    Eufy
  15. Avatar
    MonkeyMan9012/05/2022 22:28

    What you want doesn't exist. You can't access local storage remotely. If …What you want doesn't exist. You can't access local storage remotely. If you don't want to pay a subscription then you can't collect your data remotely so something has got to give i'm afraid. The whole point of a subscription is for the ability to access your data whenever you want. You can't expect them to run a server for you for free.


    That's a bit misleading as I have 2 different cameras that record subscription free 24/7 that I can access via my app on my phone.
  16. Avatar
    MonkeyMan9012/05/2022 22:28

    What you want doesn't exist. You can't access local storage remotely. If …What you want doesn't exist. You can't access local storage remotely. If you don't want to pay a subscription then you can't collect your data remotely so something has got to give i'm afraid. The whole point of a subscription is for the ability to access your data whenever you want. You can't expect them to run a server for you for free.


    You're mistaken.
    A normal cctv with NVR allows that.
    I view remotely all the time.
    Hikvision btw.
    Just need a home internet connection with decent upload bandwidth.
  17. Avatar
    Author
    jameshothothot12/05/2022 23:17

    I got warfencam from Google play for a one off fee. Can record on demand …I got warfencam from Google play for a one off fee. Can record on demand or continuously. Can save to Google drive or Dropbox ( I think... I used Google) . Set up a new Google account for more storage if needed.Use any old phone with a camera working.I did get blink originally but blink motion detector didn't work through my glass door and I couldn't put it outside as live on busy street. Warden can detects via software changes. Blink via infrared.Not sure if blink can do 24 7 suh free just detection.


    This is a good suggestion, I've had fairly good experience with warden cam in the past.

    But downside is the phone may shut down or restart while I'm away, motion sensor is too sensitive and no night vision.

    melted12/05/2022 23:35

    In my view, the best way to provide properly secure remote access to your …In my view, the best way to provide properly secure remote access to your cameras is to run your own encrypted VPN server on your own LAN and install a VPN client on your phone, laptop, or whatever. This could be achieved using a spare router flashed with Openwrt (or a low power computer like a raspberry pi) running Wireguard VPN server.You would also need to register with any free Dynamic DNS service unless you have a static IP address.Buy CCTV cameras that support ONVIF, which is a standard for accessing cameras and NVRs, although they may only provide onvif support for a subset of their features, but at a minimum will allow you to access a RTSP stream and record it locally, using any onvif compliant software/app. So you'll still be able to use the camera even if the manufacturer's p2p cloud server folds or goes temporarily down, or if you have to block the camera from accessing the internet due to vulnerabilities.I have all my IP cameras blocked by my router from making outbound connections to the internet because their P2P and cloud services contain unfixed security flaws (some multiple flaws). All the P2P apps for my cameras will connect direct to the camera when it is available on my LAN, or virtual VPN LAN, so I can still use their apps for features they've not implemented ONVIF support for.


    This sounds like an ideal setup, I was considering using a raspberry pi but need something plug and play for the time being. Otherwise I would have quite the project!

    Blurryface13/05/2022 07:46

    You need the sync module 2 but you can view and download any videos stored …You need the sync module 2 but you can view and download any videos stored locally on the usb through the blink app at any time, anywhere. Naturally you can use the usb in a pc to do the same. Ideally they would need to be powered 24/7 as stated as the batteries would be dead in a day or 2 of constant recording. The xt2 we have can be mounted inside or outside also.


    Thank you for this, it's really unclear online if you can access your local storage remotely via the app.

    Might have to see how much this sync module is (edited)
  18. Avatar
    Author
    AndyRoyd12/05/2022 23:14

    That wasn't a solution suggestion; it was an example of remote access to …That wasn't a solution suggestion; it was an example of remote access to storage.Solution suggestion: consider highly-rated credible & branded item with significant support & user base, 24/7 recording option, 256GB microSD capacity (20+ days "lab", mmm, yeah), remote access, pan/tilt(/zoom?), 2-way audio, Alexa & Google Home, etc, etc, currently decent price of £26 Prime for TP-Link Tapo C210https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08ZNTM1X1/


    Looks awesome! Just watched a YouTube video on this camera.

    Users note a warning after 5mins of live viewing where you have to click to start watching again, but not a massive issue for the price.

    Need to make a decision now with what to buy.
  19. Avatar
    The sync module is around £29.99 on its own - not the cheapest unfortunately, not sure if they have kits with camera and module bundled either.. but it works well.
  20. Avatar
    I'm using the the eufy 2k camera which is fantastic

    AndyRoyd12/05/2022 22:54

    Assuming OP wants a standalone camera and not a DVR-based system, the 24/7 …Assuming OP wants a standalone camera and not a DVR-based system, the 24/7 requirement may be the issue as it will require a chunk of local storage, typically via integral (micro)SD card. If DVR is definitely not wanted, it will probably be essential for a cam to have a minimum spec of x265 not x264 compression, plus minimum 128GB card capacity - these two expectations will dramatically limit options.


    I use eufy 24/7 recording at 2k gives you 12 days of history and you can access and download footage remotely.
    Very impressed with it (edited)
  21. Avatar
    Kenji13/05/2022 20:48

    Looks awesome! ...Need to make a decision now with what to buy.


    Did you buy the 1296p £26 cam, or the similar £23 1080p version? If so, what are your thoughts? TIA.
  22. Avatar
    Author
    AndyRoyd18/05/2022 20:44

    Did you buy the 1296p £26 cam, or the similar £23 1080p version? If so, w …Did you buy the 1296p £26 cam, or the similar £23 1080p version? If so, what are your thoughts? TIA.


    Hello!

    I bought the C210 Camera which I beleive is the 1296p one.

    First impressions are good, the video quality is pretty decent, tilt and swivel options are great.

    I've only had it a day and no SD card just yet, night vision is very impressive. I was worried the IR wouldn't light up too far but I can see my entire hallway from my living room (8 metres ish).

    The camera also supports RSTP & ONVIF should I plan to create my own NVR.

    I don't think you can go much wrong with the price, I'll test with an SD card soon to see if I can definitely record 24/7 with free remote access.

    There seems to be no desktop application for viewing though, but I can use Samsung Dex to get the picture on my PC.

    Another thing to note is the Tapo Care is £2.99 a month should you want to use a cloud service with a 30 day free trial.

    I'm satisfied with my purchase so far
  23. Avatar
    Kenji19/05/2022 00:30

    Hello!I bought the C210 Camera which I beleive is the 1296p one. First …Hello!I bought the C210 Camera which I beleive is the 1296p one. First impressions are good, the video quality is pretty decent, tilt and swivel options are great.I've only had it a day and no SD card just yet, night vision is very impressive. I was worried the IR wouldn't light up too far but I can see my entire hallway from my living room (8 metres ish).The camera also supports RSTP & ONVIF should I plan to create my own NVR. I don't think you can go much wrong with the price, I'll test with an SD card soon to see if I can definitely record 24/7 with free remote access. There seems to be no desktop application for viewing though, but I can use Samsung Dex to get the picture on my PC. Another thing to note is the Tapo Care is £2.99 a month should you want to use a cloud service with a 30 day free trial. I'm satisfied with my purchase so far


    Sounds good. Disapointing that there is no dedicated PC app but Onvif is an option so not a dealbreaker.
  24. Avatar
    Have a couple of the Tapo cameras as a back up to Ring system. amazon.co.uk/dp/…936

    With and SD card inserted they offer good recording and remote playback via the Tapo App.

    Sitting on an upstairs window sill even at night the picture is clear outside, you can also remotely rotate the camera.

    If set up in a room the app will ping you if it detects movement, this is fairly good but I have had a few false alarms.

    No subscription costs but I believe Tapo/TP Link also offer a Ring style storage option if you prefer that route.
  25. Avatar
    Kenji19/05/2022 00:30

    Hello!I bought the C210 Camera which I beleive is the 1296p one. First …Hello!I bought the C210 Camera which I beleive is the 1296p one. First impressions are good, the video quality is pretty decent, tilt and swivel options are great.I've only had it a day and no SD card just yet, night vision is very impressive. I was worried the IR wouldn't light up too far but I can see my entire hallway from my living room (8 metres ish).The camera also supports RSTP & ONVIF should I plan to create my own NVR. I don't think you can go much wrong with the price, I'll test with an SD card soon to see if I can definitely record 24/7 with free remote access. There seems to be no desktop application for viewing though, but I can use Samsung Dex to get the picture on my PC. Another thing to note is the Tapo Care is £2.99 a month should you want to use a cloud service with a 30 day free trial. I'm satisfied with my purchase so far


    How long is the C210 power lead? Thanks.
  26. Avatar
    AndyRoyd22/05/2022 22:37

    How long is the C210 power lead? Thanks.


    Standard TPLink Tapo camera power lead = 3 metres, 5.5mm x 2.1mm DC barrel, 9 volts @ 0.6 amps. Black lead to presumably deliberately not match the white camera
    tp-link.com/uk/…10/
  27. Avatar
    I run yi home camera 1080p cams with sd cards, no subscription needed and you can view the recordings anywhere !
    I have setup a zone watching my front gates, which catches pedestrian and car lights passing...
    A 32gb card lasts about 3 days, when old footage is overwritten. (edited)
  28. Avatar
    MonkeyMan9012/05/2022 22:28

    What you want doesn't exist. You can't access local storage remotely. If …What you want doesn't exist. You can't access local storage remotely. If you don't want to pay a subscription then you can't collect your data remotely so something has got to give i'm afraid. The whole point of a subscription is for the ability to access your data whenever you want. You can't expect them to run a server for you for free.


    This does exist with good old fashioned DVR/NVR and port forwarding.
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